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UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS M ANAGEMENT 2018 2021 PL AN
UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS M ANAGEMENT 2018 2021 PL AN
INTRODUCTION
This document sets out the roadmap for the United human rights. We will also shift our work to better
Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Hu- understand and engage human rights dimensions
man Rights (OHCHR, UN Human Rights Office) of frontier issues in the areas of climate change,
over the four years 2018-2021 inclusive. digital space, inequality, corruption, and people’s
displacement and movement.
In 2017, the UN Human Rights Office undertook
consultations on our future priorities with Mem- Our new roadmap is strongly anchored to the 2030
ber States, the UN system, civil society, the phil- Sustainable Development Agenda. We will focus
anthropic community, the private sector, and our on the Agenda’s human rights-based commitment
staff. More than one hundred States, 140 external to ‘leave no one behind’ and over the next four years
stakeholders and a large number of OHCHR staff will spotlight the human rights of women, young
contributed at country, regional and headquarters people, and persons with disabilities.
levels. Regional consultations were held in Bang-
kok, Panama, Beirut, Brussels and Addis Ababa, To deliver this human rights impact successfully,
while 900 individuals responded to an online sur- we must also align our organizational processes
vey. The findings of a 'Strategic Foresight' workshop and working methods to our roadmap. We will step
were complemented by an independent analysis of up our operations to enhance how we operate and
future global trends relevant to human rights. Our work together, to better foster innovation and dy-
new roadmap is the product of this expert advice namic knowledge, and to better leverage support
and technical input, and builds on lessons learned for human rights through more effective communi-
from previous experience, including the findings of cations and mutually beneficial partnerships.
evaluations and audits.
We are confident that the roadmap outlined here
This process confirmed the ongoing value of is robustly responsive and relevant to the human
OHCHR’s work under six ‘pillars’: support for the rights realities of today and tomorrow. We are
international human rights mechanisms; main- certain that it will provide sound guidance for an
streaming of human rights within development accountable Office as we work to implement effect-
and peace and security efforts; and advancement ively the mandates with which we are entrusted and
of the core human rights principles of non-dis- address the challenges of defending all rights for all
crimination, accountability and participation. in a changing world.
However, changes in the world mean we must
change too. For the next four years, across our
thematic ‘pillars’, OHCHR will introduce major
shifts to: strengthen work to prevent conflict,
violence and insecurity; help expand civic space;
and help broaden the global constituency for
TABLE OF CONTENTS
6 A CHANGING GLOBAL CONTEXT
8 INTO THE FUTURE
16 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
40 ‘SHIFTS’ ACROSS OUR PILLARS TO INCREASE OUR
RELEVANCE
46 SHINING A ‘SPOTLIGHT’ ON WOMEN, YOUNG PEOPLE
AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
50 CHANGING HOW WE OPERATE
56 ANNEX: TARGETS FOR 2018-2021
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 A CHANGING GLOBAL CONTEXT
A CHANGING GLOBAL CONTEXT
6 Across the world, an extraordinary number of institutions Human rights currently are under threat from many
and laws promote and protect human rights, thanks quarters. The future of many communities, is under
to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights first threat from climate change. Tensions, inequality,
promulgated seventy years ago, in 1948. That mighty and outright conflict have pushed millions of people
document, championed by brave human rights defenders to flee their home countries, often at great personal
and visionary human rights leaders, has helped change sacrifice. An antagonistic nationalism is on the rise,
the world. Millions have gained greater freedom and buoyed by the reassertion of racism and xenophobia
equality and have been empowered to stand up for rights. and the retreat of shame. Measures to counter dis-
Millions have greater access to justice, essential services crimination and promote greater justice are being
and equality of opportunity. Exploitation has been dismantled by those who stand to gain from hatred
challenged and poverty has fallen in many countries. and exploitation. We had hoped that a more inter-
Today, more young people go to school and more girls can connected world would improve knowledge and
stay in school. Major diseases, once commonplace, have tolerance. Certainly, a more unequal world has en-
been eradicated or are now rare. Oppressive dictatorships couraged a retreat to nativism and hostility.
have been replaced by participative systems of governance
that seek to serve their people. Perpetrators of horrific Uncertainty, conflict and inequalities are likely to
human rights violations – including genocide – have been remain prominent in the coming years. However,
prosecuted by international tribunals. deeper, longer term trends may be more positive.
Advances in education, a growing middle class, bet-
ter access to information, faster communications: all
And yet we have also failed. Indices of social and may improve the capacity of hundreds of millions of
economic inequality have soared in a majority of individuals to organize, claim, exercise and defend
countries, undermining the public’s trust in polit- their rights. Technological advances may enhance
ical and economic institutions and their confidence our ability to diagnose and treat disease, increase
in the future. While private companies and a hand- crop yields, preserve energy, predict and prepare
ful of individuals have acquired stupendous wealth, for catastrophic events, or eliminate human labour
many States struggle to raise the resources to govern from hazardous work. The overarching objectives
effectively or provide even essential public services. agreed in the Sustainable Development Goals mean
High levels of corruption are making matters worse. that, in many countries, policymakers and new so-
Governments continue to criminalize public dissent cial movements are now working in a unified way to
for a range of reasons. The “security” state is back, respond to the numerous challenges we face. If fear,
and fundamental freedoms are in retreat in every uncertainty and intolerance have increased, so too
region of the world. have efforts to resist them.
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 A CHANGING GLOBAL CONTEXT Our environment is changing in ways that we do 7 not altogether understand, with consequences that we cannot fully foresee. Yet human rights remain our most sure and universal point of reference. They can help us set a course towards inclusion, sustain- able prosperity, justice, dignity, freedom, and sus- tained peace. Each day, together, one person at a time if needs be, we can face down hatred, despair and selfishness, and build societies in which every- one has a chance to survive and flourish. In a world divided in so many ways, human rights can unite us. In a world so uncertain, human rights are our sure and steady guiding star.
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 INTO THE FUTURE
INTO THE FUTURE
8 Human Rights, Peace and Security, and Development The roadmap to 2021 is comprised of:
are the three pillars of the United Nations as a whole.
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights Six thematic ‘Pillars’ that form the solid base on
i.
(OHCHR), headed by the High Commissioner for which the work of the Office continues to stand:
Human Rights, acts as the leading United Nations entity
for human rights. Support to (1) the United Nations human
rights system.
To fulfil its responsibilities, OHCHR will follow Mainstreaming human rights in the United
a robust framework of results through to the end Nations’ other pillars: (2) development and
of 2021. This roadmap is based on the outcomes of (3) peace and security.
consultations with Member States, the UN system, Advancing the core human rights principles
civil society, the philanthropic community and of (4) non-discrimination, (5) accountabil-
the private sector. It sits firmly within the Secre- ity, and (6) participation.
tary-General’s strategic framework for 2018-2019;
integrates the duties that flow from mandates given Work under these pillars covers the core compon-
to the Office by United Nations intergovernmental ents of our mandate, enabling universal but strategic
bodies; and reflects the High Commissioner’s over- coverage (given resource limits) of human rights in
arching mandate to promote and protect all human all countries. These thematic pillars are indivisible,
rights for all. interdependent and mutually reinforcing.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 INTO THE FUTURE
Four major ‘Shifts’ to our approach that will
ii. iii. Our work will be ‘people-centred’. Further, 9
better adapt our work to the changing external across everything we do, including when we
context. These will help us focus on key threats focus on the human rights of other population
to rights and key opportunities for leveraging groups, we will shine a ‘spotlight’ on the human
support to better protect and promote rights. rights of women, young people and persons
The shifts we will make across our six pillars are with disabilities. In support of the 2030 Sus-
to: tainable Development Agenda’s human rights-
based commitment to ‘leave no one behind’,
Support prevention of conflict, violence we will highlight the human rights concerns of
and insecurity. women, young people and persons with disabil-
Protect and expand civic space. ities, including as defenders of rights.
Support and further develop the global con- iv. Action for organizational effectiveness. In
stituency for human rights. our daily operations as ‘one Office’ we will in-
Deliver human rights in the context of emer- vest greater effort in areas that will enhance
ging global concerns (‘frontier issues’). our programme delivery and in which change
is needed to ensure our continued operational
These ‘Shifts’ will further unify our efforts as one relevance and efficiency. This means stepping up
Office; driving coherence, scale and measurable our organizational effectiveness to better foster
human rights impact in an uncertain world. innovation and dynamic knowledge, and bet-
ter leverage support for human rights through
more effective communications and mutually
beneficial partnerships.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THEORY OF CHANGE
THEORY OF CHANGE
THE RESULTS WE GOAL
WHAT WE DO OUR PILLARS
CONTRIBUTE TO ALL
HUMAN
10
PROVIDE EXPERT LEGAL MECHANISMS State laws and policies
ADVICE ON HUMAN Increasing implementation
of the outcomes of the
protect and promote RIGHTS
ARE
RIGHTS ISSUES human rights
international human rights
FACILITATE LEARNING State institutions, non-
AND KNOWLEDGE
mechanisms
state actors and the private ACHIEVED
FOR ALL
TRANSFER sector promote, protect
DEVELOPMENT and respect human rights
D ELIVER HUMAN RIGHTS
Advancing sustainable
EDUCATION
development through State accountability
human rights mechanisms monitor,
R AISE HUMAN RIGHTS
investigate and provide
AWARENESS
redress for human rights
COMMUNICATE PEACE AND SECURITY violations
Preventing violations and
MONITOR AND PUBLICLY strengthening protection Public participation in
REPORT ON HUMAN of human rights, including policy-making processes
RIGHTS SITUATIONS in situations of conflict and grows, particularly by
insecurity women and members
ADVOCATE FOR HUMAN of groups facing
RIGHTS discrimination
DIRECTLY PROTECT NON-DISCRIMINATION
Enhancing equality and Public support grows for
CIVIL SOCIETY MEMBERS protection of human rights
AND HUMAN RIGHTS countering discrimination
DEFENDERS Member States and other
ACCOUNTABILITY
actors engage with United
FACILITATE DIALOGUE Nations human rights
BETWEEN DIVERSE Strengthening the rule of
law and accountability for mechanisms
STAKEHOLDERS ON
HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUES human rights violations International and regional
human rights mechanisms
BUILD NETWORKS and bodies promote and
AND ALLIANCES TO PARTICIPATION
Enhancing participation protect human rights
EXTEND HUMAN RIGHTS effectively
PROMOTION AND and protecting civic space
PROTECTION The international
community responds
ENABLE THE effectively to critical
FUNCTIONING OF THE human rights situations
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN and issues
RIGHTS MECHANISMS
International human rights
law and standards progress
Human rights are
effectively integrated
in UN policies and
programmesOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 ROADMAP TO 2021
ROADMAP TO 2021
SHIFTS
WORKING TO PROMOTING HELPING PREVENT SUPPORTING
PROTECT HUMAN RIGHTS IN CONFLICT, A GLOBAL
AND EXPAND THE CONTEXT OF VIOLENCE A ND CONSTITUENCY
CIVIC SPACE “FRONTIER ISSUES” INSECURITY FOR
H UMAN RIGHTS 11
PILLARS
DEVELOPMENT
NON-DISCRIMINATION Advancing sustainable
nhancing equality and
E development through human rights
countering discrimination
PEACE AND SECURITY
PARTICIPATION
Preventing violations and
Enhancing participation
strengthening protection
and protecting civic space
of human rights, including
in situations of conflict and
insecurity
MECHANISMS
ACCOUNTABILITY
Increasing implementation
Strengthening the rule
of the outcomes of the
of law and accountability
international human rights
for human rights violations
mechanisms
ORGANIZATIONAL
EFFECTIVENESS
ACTION PLANS
Talent and career
management
Operations Partnerships
Diversity and gender
management
Knowledge
Strategic leadership management External
and direction Resource communications
mobilization
InnovationOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 12
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
13
NON- PEACE AND HR
DEVELOPMENT DISCRIMINATION PARTICIPATION SECURITY ACCOUNTABILITY MECHANISMS
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 4, 5, 8, 10, 5, 10, 16 5, 16, 17 5, 8, 10, 16 5, 16, 17
10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17 16, 17
LAWS, POLICIES PARTIES TO A LAWS, POLICIES AND STRUCTURES
SDGS HR LAWS, POLICIES AND PRACTICES CONFLICT COMPLY PRACTICES ON LAW FOR INTEGRATED
GROUNDED AND PRACTICES WITH HR AND ENFORCEMENT AND REPORTING AND
MECHANISMS PROTECTION OF ADMINISTRATION IMPLEMENTATION
DISAGGREGATED MECHANISMS FOR PROTECTION CIVILIANS OF JUSTICE
AND HR BASED FOR REDRESS OF CIVIC SPACE CIVIL SOCIETY
DATA PVE AND COUNTER- MECHANISMS FOR ENGAGEMENT WITH
WOMEN /GIRLS’ PUBLIC SUPPORT TERRORISM ACCOUNTABILITY HR MECHANISMS
HR IMPACT PROTECTION FOR CIVIC SPACE POLICIES HR AND REDRESS
ASSESSMENT OF FROM VIOLENCE AND RECOGNITION GROUNDED POLICY MAKERS,
DEVELOPMENT OF HR’S ACCOUNTABILITY PARLIAMENTS
PROJECTS ERADICATING CONTRIBUTION PREVENTION FOR GENDER AND COURTS
HARMFUL IN RESPONSE TO AND RESPONSE RELATED CRIMES USE OUTCOMES
LAND AND STEREOTYPES VIOLENCE TO CONFLICT HR
HOUSING POLICIES GROUNDED TRANSPARENCY DEVELOPMENT OF
HR GROUNDED HR PROTECTION IN ASSISTANCE INTERNATIONAL
THE DIGITAL SPACE TO VICTIMS TRANSITIONAL UN ENGAGEMENT HR LAW
HEALTH POLICIES JUSTICE ON RULE OF LAW
HR GROUNDED PROTECTION OF CIVIC SPACE AND SECURITY EFFECTIVENESS
MIGRANTS' RIGHTS MONITORED HR INFORMATION ISSUES OF HR
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVES EARLY HR GROUNDED MECHANISMS
POLICIES HR PUBLIC SUPPORT PEOPLE HAVE WARNING
GROUNDED FOR INCLUSIVE A VOICE
SOCIETIES NEW WEAPONS
BUSINESS HELD AND TACTICS HR
ACCOUNTABLE UN RESPONSE GROUNDED
AND RESPECT HR GROUNDED
UN GUIDING UN ENGAGEMENT
PRINCIPLES HR GROUNDEDOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021
OHCHR
AROUND THE WORLD 2018
14
Headquarter
Country / Stand-alone Offices / Human Rights missions
Regional Offices / Centers
Human Rights components in Peace Missions
Human Rights Advisers in UNCT /
Human Rights Mainstreaming Project
AMERICAS - Country Offices: Colombia (1997), Mexico (2002), Guatemala (2005), Honduras (2015) | Human Rights Component in Peace Mission: Haiti (MINUJUST,
2016) | Regional Offices: Central America (Panama City 2007), South America (Santiago 2009) | Human Rights Advisers in UNCT / Human Rights Mainstreaming
Projects: Paraguay (2010), Dominican Republic*(2014), Barbados* (2016), Argentina* (2018), Brazil* (2018), Ecuador* (2018), Peru* (2018), Uruguay* (2018)
EUROPE / CENTRAL-ASIA - Human Rights Mission: Ukraine (2014) | Human Rights Components in Peace Missions: Kosovo** (UNMIK, 2015) | Regional Offices: Central
Asia (Bishkek 2006), Europe (Brussels 2009) | Human Rights Advisers in UNCT / Human Rights Mainstreaming Projects: Southern Caucasus (Tbilisi, 2006), former
Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (2007), Moldova (2016), Serbia (2017), Russian Federation (2017), Belarus* (2018)
* Human Rights Advisers deployment through the UNDG-Human Rights Mainstreaming Mechanism.
** Reference to Kosovo should be understood in full compliance with United Nations Security Council resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.15 AFRICA - Country Offices: Uganda (2005), Guinea (2009), Burundi (2015), Chad (2017) | Human Rights Components in Peace Missions: Sudan (UNAMID, 2008), South Sudan (UNMISS, 2011), Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO, 2010), Liberia (UNMIL, 2003), Central African Republic (MINUSCA, 2014), Guinea Bissau (UNIOGBIS, 1999), Somalia (UNSOM, 2013), Mali (MINUSMA, 2013) | Regional Offices/Centre: East Africa (Addis Ababa 2002), Southern Africa (Pretoria 1998), United Nations Sub-Regional Centre for Human Rights & Democracy in Central Africa (Yaoundé 2001); West Africa (Dakar 2008) | Human Rights Advisers in UNCT / Human Rights Mainstreaming Projects: Kenya (2008), Madagascar (2011), Rwanda (2007), Malawi* (2014), Nigeria* (2014), Zimbabwe* (2018) ASIA PACIFIC - Country Offices: Cambodia (1993), OHCHR Field-based structure*** (Seoul, Republic of Korea, May 2015) | Human Rights Components in Peace Missions: Afghanistan (UNAMA, 2002) | Regional Offices: South East Asia (Bangkok, 2002), Pacific (Suva, 2005), | Human Rights Advisers in UNCT / Human Rights Mainstreaming Projects: Sri Lanka (2004), Papua New Guinea (2008), Timor Leste* (2013), Philippines*(2014), Bangladesh* (2018), Malaysia* (2018) MIDDLE-EAST / NORTH-AFRICA - Stand-alone / Country Offices: State of Palestine**** (Gaza, 1996, and Ramallah, 2000), Mauritania (2009), Tunisia (2011), Yemen (2012) | Human Rights Components in Peace Mission: Iraq (UNAMI, 2003), Libya (UNSMIL, 2011) | Regional Office / Centre: Middle East and North Africa (Beirut 2002), United Nations Human Rights Training and Documentation Centre for South West Asia and the Arab Region (Doha 2009) | Human Rights Advisers in UNCT / Human Rights Mainstreaming Projects: Jordan* (2018) *** Mandated by Human Rights Council resolution 25/25. **** Reference to the State of Palestine should be understood in compliance with United Nations General Assembly resolution 67/19. The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on this map do not imply official endorsement or acceptance by the United Nations. Map as at 1 June 2018.
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021
16 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
The Human Rights Council in session at Palais des Nations in Geneva, February 2018.
© OHCHR/Pierre Albouy.17
OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
INCREASING IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE OUTCOMES OF THE INTERNATIONAL
HUMAN RIGHTS MECHANISMS
18
The international human rights mechanisms Over the period 2018-2021, together with our part-
(mechanisms) include the Human Rights Council ners, we will work so that:
(HRC), its Special Procedures (independent experts
and working groups) and Universal Periodic Review NATIONAL INSTITUTIONALIZED
(UPR), and the Treaty Bodies. Their monitoring STRUCTURES FACILITATE AN
and analysis, as well as their interaction with States INTEGRATED AND PARTICIPATORY
and a wide array of stakeholders, help to identify APPROACH TO REPORTING TO
strengths and weaknesses in human rights law and THE HUMAN RIGHTS MECHANISMS
practice, and create opportunities for reform. The AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THEIR
support that we provide to the mechanisms is a core RECOMMENDATIONS.
element of our work.
We will help develop additional systems and sup-
Rising reporting requirements and the volume of port existing National Mechanisms for Reporting
mechanisms’ recommendations have created an and Follow-up (NMRF), to enhance implementa-
implementation gap for many States. To implement tion of recommendations of all international human
the mechanisms’ recommendations in a holistic and rights mechanisms. We will support Governments
integrated manner will require more effective co- to strengthen their engagement, coordination, con-
ordination, communication and action. sultation, and information management capacity
with a focus on ensuring meaningful consultations;
In the coming years we will strengthen the link and assist States to develop implementation plans
between the work of the mechanisms and required and use related tracking databases. Model terms of
action at country level by building partnerships reference for an NMRF, training materials, guide-
with the UN system, Member States and other lines and checklists, and the dissemination of good
stakeholders. We will make better use of key entry practices will underpin these efforts.
points for implementation, such as the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) and the UN Secre- CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS,
tary-General’s prevention agenda, and provide tools NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS
to support the implementation of recommenda- INSTITUTIONS, AND NON-TRADITIONAL
tions. We will also seek to broaden non-traditional ACTORS, PARTICULARLY THOSE
actors’ engagement with the mechanisms, especially WORKING ON EMERGING HUMAN
actors working on emerging human rights issues, RIGHTS ISSUES (FRONTIER ISSUES),
and maximize their important preventive role in INCREASINGLY ENGAGE WITH THE
foreseeing and forestalling violations. INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS
MECHANISMS AND USE THEIR
OUTCOMES.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
We will reach out to civil society organizations, na- We will support mechanisms’ efforts to identify 19
tional human rights institutions and non-traditional gaps in international law and provide jurispruden-
actors to build networks for cross-learning, develop tial guidance on emerging human rights issues. We
a one-stop online platform for engagement with the will develop our in-house capacity; identify experts
mechanisms, and exploit up-to-date communica- and key forums in association with States, UN and
tions to facilitate two-way exchange of information regional bodies, NHRIs, and civil society organiza-
during mechanisms’ hearings. To increase engage- tions; organize platforms and meetings to elaborate
ment by actors unfamiliar with the mechanisms, we legal issues or clarify standards; increase the collab-
will carry out targeted communication campaigns oration and involvement of the mechanisms with
and develop capacity-building tools on emerging regional human rights organizations; and develop
human rights issues. guidelines to facilitate their engagement in judicial
proceedings, as amicus curiae or expert witnesses.
POLICY-MAKERS, LEGISLATORS
AND COURTS MAKE INCREASED INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS
USE OF THE OUTCOMES OF THE MECHANISMS ARE INCREASINGLY
INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL EFFECTIVE IN PROMOTING AND
HUMAN RIGHTS MECHANISMS. PROTECTING HUMAN RIGHTS.
The outcomes include thematic and country rec- We will focus on making the mechanisms coherent
ommendations, but also interim and urgent pro- and promote enhanced integration in the various
tection measures. We will seek to ramp up their processes that influence their operation. For this
dissemination by the United Nations inter-agency purpose we will increase awareness among both the
coordination teams at country level (UNCTs) and mechanisms and State officials of the importance of
communities of practice of State officials. We will concrete, practical and mutually reinforcing recom-
also assist policy makers, legislators and courts to mendations; develop policy and capacity building
translate them into national policies, legislation and tools to ensure a holistic approach to implementing
decisions; and put processes in place to ensure ur- mechanisms’ recommendations; and develop in-
gent measures reach relevant actors promptly. formation tools for analysing human rights trends
and patterns as a contribution to prevention of crisis
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS and early warning. We will work to ensure that
MECHANISMS CONTRIBUTE TO the mechanisms are more accessible and visible,
THE ELABORATION OF INTERNATIONAL through enhanced use of videoconferencing and
LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE, IN webcasting, and will document and disseminate
PARTICULAR IN THE CONTEXT OF stories about the impact that mechanisms have on
EMERGING HUMAN RIGHTS CONCERNS the lives of people.
(“FRONTIER” ISSUES).OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
ADVANCING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
THROUGH HUMAN RIGHTS
20
Children in Kenya enjoying
their right to an education,
October 2017. ©OHCHR Human rights create conditions essential for sus-
tainable development. The 2030 Agenda reco-
gnizes that inclusive and participative economies,
and societies in which government is accountable,
achieve better outcomes for all people, leaving
no one behind. The Declaration on the Right to
Development emphasizes the right of all individuals
and peoples to free, active and meaningful partici-
pation. And the UN Guiding Principles on Business
and Human Rights (UNGPs) set out the duty of
States and private companies to ensure that business
activities do not abuse people’s rights.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
Civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights of human rights abuses that involve businesses and 21
and the right to development build on each other other economic actors, including in the technology
and advance together. No matter how free indi- and finance sectors; and strategically engage with
viduals are to speak out and protest, they are not business and other economic actors to enhance
truly free if they lack food, education or adequate accountability and access to remedy.
housing. The reverse is also true. Societies in which
people have access to fundamental social protec- BUSINESS ACTORS IMPLEMENT THE
tions, and economic resources and opportunities, UN GUIDING PRINCIPLES ON BUSINESS
are less vulnerable to social fracture and the spread AND HUMAN RIGHTS EFFECTIVELY.
of extremism.
We will work strategically with States, businesses,
Despite this, economic policies in many countries civil society and other key stakeholders to apply and
have curtailed social protection and concentrated integrate the UNGPs in national, regional and inter-
wealth and political power in fewer and fewer hands. national legal and policy frameworks relevant to
Unsustainable, wasteful growth patterns increase business and other economic actors, and in company
environmental degradation and accelerate climate practice. We will advocate, support, convene and par-
change, generating effects that harm health, access to ticipate in multi-stakeholder and inter-governmental
water and sanitation, food, housing and land rights, processes to develop and strengthen standards and
and endanger life. The poorest, who contribute least policies in this area, and enter into strategic partner-
to climate change, pay the highest price. ships where appropriate with business and other actors
to enhance implementation of the UNGPs.
Over the period 2018-2021, together with our part-
ners, we will work so that: STATE AUTHORITIES ADOPT AND
IMPLEMENT LAWS, POLICIES AND
JUDICIAL AND NON-JUDICIAL STRATEGIES ON LAND AND HOUSING
MECHANISMS HOLD BUSINESS AND THAT INCREASINGLY COMPLY WITH
OTHER ECONOMIC ACTORS TO HUMAN RIGHTS.
ACCOUNT FOR RIGHTS ABUSES AND
PROVIDE REMEDIES TO VICTIMS. We will strengthen efforts to support authorities to
integrate human rights standards when they draft
We will provide technical support, guidance and and implement laws, policies and strategies on land
advocacy to increase the effectiveness of judicial and housing; assist accountability mechanisms to
and non-judicial accountability mechanisms and address forced evictions, homelessness, displace-
policies to address human rights abuses arising ment, land grabs and other violations of housing,
from economic activity, including in cross border land and related rights such as food, water and sani-
cases; clarify legal options and identify practical tation; strengthen partnerships to increase aware-
measures to improve access to remedy for victims ness of the right to housing and land rights; andOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
22 develop practical approaches to implement the SDG ENVIRONMENTAL AND CLIMATE
commitment to ‘leave no one behind’ with respect POLICIES AND PLANS INCREASINGLY
to housing, land and related human rights. RESPECT, PROTECT AND FULFIL
HUMAN RIGHTS, GUARANTEEING
PUBLIC HEALTH APPROACHES, THOSE AFFECTED ACCESS TO
INCLUDING SEXUAL AND INFORMATION, DECISION-MAKING,
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH POLICIES, PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND REMEDIES.
COMPLY WITH INTERNATIONAL
HUMAN RIGHTS STANDARDS AND We will collaborate with partners to integrate hu-
PROVIDE NON-DISCRIMINATORY man rights in environmental laws and policies; and
ACCESS, ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN, press for the inclusion of civil society in environ-
ADOLESCENTS, WOMEN AND mental decision-making processes, access to infor-
MIGRANTS. mation, and effective remedies for victims. We will
assist human rights mechanisms to address environ-
We will work to deepen understanding of the im- mental issues; advocate on behalf of environment
pact of discrimination on health rights, including defenders and support efforts by the UN system to
by monitoring health care settings, and provide protect them; and conduct research and advocacy
technical advice on the right to health of people to address human rights harms caused by environ-
who are marginalized or face discrimination. We mental degradation, particularly to groups in vul-
will seek to increase awareness among health work- nerable situations.
ers of their role as human rights defenders and pro-
tect those who defend and promote human rights, HUMAN RIGHTS ASSESSMENTS AND
including sexual and reproductive rights. We will IMPACT ANALYSES MITIGATE, PREVENT
promote and support protection of health-related OR REDRESS THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF
human rights during efforts to prevent or respond ECONOMIC, TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT
to conflicts, epidemics, natural disasters and other POLICIES AND PROJECTS.
crises, and assist humanitarian actors to apply a
rights-based approach to health in those situations. We will encourage and assist States and partners to
apply human rights assessments and impact analysis
to trade and investment policies, environmental and
social risk management, and development finance.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
We will help to create and maintain safeguard poli- rights; and buttress the human rights expertise of 23
cies and independent accountability mechanisms Resident Coordinators and UN Country Teams
for development financing institutions and will in this area, inter alia by operationalizing the UN
support populations affected by them. We will con- framework on equality and non-discrimination.
tinue to provide technical support to human rights Finally, we will provide expertise and support to the
mechanisms on methodologies, including for the Working Group and the Special Rapporteur on the
drafting of the Guiding Principles for Human Rights Right to Development; and seek to expand support
Impact Assessments of Economic Reform Policies. for the right to development and its integration in
the SDGs and work of the UN.
STATES INTEGRATE HUMAN
RIGHTS, INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS, ASSISTED
DEVELOPMENT AND HUMAN RIGHTS BY COMMUNITIES, SYSTEMATICALLY
MECHANISMS’ OUTCOMES, AS THEY COLLECT, DISAGGREGATE AND USE
IMPLEMENT THE SUSTAINABLE DATA RELEVANT FOR ADVANCING
DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND OTHER HUMAN RIGHTS WHEN THEY MONITOR
DEVELOPMENT AND POVERTY AND IMPLEMENT THE SDGS.
ERADICATION EFFORTS; AND THE UN
SUPPORTS THEM IN THESE PURPOSES, We will work to improve the capacity of national
INTEGRATING HUMAN RIGHTS IN ITS institutions to collect, analyse and disaggregate
OWN DEVELOPMENT WORK. data to identify those left behind, and promote
the inclusion in data collection of groups who face
We will encourage and support governments, na- discrimination. We will develop legal and practical
tional human rights institutions and civil society guidance on human rights-based data collection
to integrate human rights, including the right to and indicators, including on ways to manage risk;
development, when they implement, monitor or re- and seek to improve measurement of intersecting
view the SDGs or other development efforts; and and multiple discrimination and inequality. We will
advocate for the integration of human rights in assist the international statistical system to main-
SDG processes in intergovernmental fora. We will stream human rights in its standards and methods,
advocate for expanding civil society participation in and notably in the data disaggregation frameworks
SDG processes; document and communicate how that measure and report on human rights indicators
integrating human rights in development reduces as part of SDG progress reports.
poverty and inequality; work to enhance the UN
leadership’s commitment to align, and advocate for
the alignment of, development policies with humanOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
PREVENTING VIOLATIONS AND STRENGTHENING
PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS, INCLUDING
IN SITUATIONS OF CONFLICT AND INSECURITY
24
Children in Yemen survey the
results of an airstrike which The maintenance of international peace and sec-
killed at least nine people in urity is one of the purposes of the United Nations
Sana’a, March 2018. Charter. Violence and conflict undermine sustain-
©EPA-EFE/YAHYA ARHAB. able development. Human rights violations are at
the root causes of conflict and insecurity which,
in turn, invariably result in further violations of
human rights. As such, action to protect and pro-
mote human rights has inherent preventive power
while rights-based approaches to peace and secur-
ity bring this power to efforts for sustainable peace.
The human rights normative framework also pro-
vides a sound basis for addressing issues of seriousOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
concern within or between countries that, if left public attention, and advocate for changes in policy, 25
unaddressed, may lead to conflict. Human rights practice and conduct; provide training and technic-
information and analysis is a tool for early warning al advice to integrate international human rights
and early targeted action that has not yet been used and humanitarian law in military and peace oper-
to its full potential. ations; strategically engage with parties to conflicts
to reduce human rights violations and integrate hu-
Failure to adhere to international human rights man rights in political decision making and peace
standards and protect human rights weakens peace- agreements; facilitate the participation of diverse
making, peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts. groups, including women, in peace negotiations;
Global efforts to counter terrorism and prevent the and cooperate closely with regional and UN peace
spread of violent extremism suffer from this failure. missions to ensure integration of human rights.
The UN’s renewed focus on prevention and sustain-
ing peace is key to both this and the previous pillar EFFORTS TO COUNTER TERRORISM AND
on advancing sustainable development. We can help PREVENT VIOLENT EXTREMISM COMPLY
to sustain both peace and development by showing WITH INTERNATIONAL LAW.
how applying human rights norms can address
grievances, reduce inequality and build resilience. We will gather evidence and undertake further re-
This pillar also addresses potential threats posed by search, monitoring and reporting to support our
new technologies in a security context. strategic advocacy on the role of human rights vio-
lations in driving violent extremism and terrorism,
From 2018-2021, together with our partners, we and the role of human rights protection in preven-
will work so that: tion. We will build the capacity and commitment
of State authorities and other actors to respect inter-
PARTIES TO CONFLICT AND ACTORS national law in their efforts to combat terrorism and
INVOLVED IN PEACE OPERATIONS prevent violent extremism, and ensure accountabil-
INCREASINGLY COMPLY WITH ity and respect for victims’ rights.
INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND
HUMANITARIAN LAW AND PROVIDE STRATEGIES TO PREVENT AND RESPOND
GREATER PROTECTION TO CIVILIANS. TO CONFLICT CONSISTENTLY INTEGRATE
HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECTION.
We will monitor human rights violations commit-
ted during armed conflicts, including civilian cas- We will actively engage with UN entities, region-
ualties and incidents of sexual and gender-based al bodies, and individual Member States to show
violence; bring facts and evidence to the parties’ and that protection and promotion of human rightsOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
26 contribute to more effective conflict prevention, HUMAN RIGHTS INFORMATION AND
conflict management, and post-conflict peace. To ANALYSES ARE INTEGRATED IN EARLY
this end, we will monitor the implementation of rel- WARNING AND ANALYSIS SYSTEMS
evant strategies, provide advice on what is needed to AND INFLUENCE INTERNATIONAL
ensure effective human rights protection; and pro- AND NATIONAL POLICY-MAKING,
vide training, operational guidance and technical STRATEGIES AND OPERATIONS TO
advice on how to integrate human rights operation- PREVENT, MITIGATE OR RESPOND
ally in prevention and peacebuilding activities. TO EMERGING CRISES, INCLUDING
HUMANITARIAN CRISES AND CONFLICT.
JUSTICE MECHANISMS, INCLUDING
FOR TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE, PROVIDE We will further develop information management
INCREASED ACCOUNTABILITY FOR practices and systems in order to provide real time
CONFLICT-RELATED VIOLATIONS. early warning analysis that can inform UN human
rights prevention, early warning, and intervention
We will document, map and report human rights strategies. This capacity will strengthen our ability to
violations and abuses, and breaches of international identify potential crises and support responses. The
humanitarian law in the context of conflict, in- development and launch of the ‘Rights View’ plat-
cluding through our assistance to inquiry mechan- form will provide access to OHCHR information
isms established by UN intergovernmental bodies; and other credible human rights sources and media.
support justice mechanisms that seek to enhance In addition, we will progressively deploy emergency
accountability for conflict-related violations in response staff to regional offices. Our work in this
different jurisdictions, including through univer- area will be an integral element of United Nations
sal jurisdiction; and continue to support compre- action on the ground, leveraging the Platform for
hensive transitional justice processes and the right Prevention, the Human Rights Up Front Action
of victims to an effective remedy. We will develop Plan, the New Way of Working, and initiatives of the
guidance and tools on victim and witness protection Inter-Agency Standing Committee.
and participation; and enhance the effectiveness of
our support to justice institutions. By promoting UNITED NATIONS’ SUPPORT TO
justice and remedies for past violations, we aim to NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SECURITY
help prevent new cycles of violence and conflict. FORCES, LAW ENFORCEMENT
AGENCIES, AND NON-STATE ACTORS
INTEGRATES HUMAN RIGHTS AND
COMPLIES WITH THE HUMAN RIGHTS
DUE DILIGENCE POLICY.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
An artist works on her paintings as part of
an anti-war outdoor gallery at the alleged
airstrike-destroyed Republican Palace in
Sana’a, Yemen, March 2018. Yemeni artists
curated the gallery to further illustrate the
human impact of conflict and amplify the call
for peace. © EPA-EFE/YAHYA ARHAB.
27
We will provide support, advice and training to THE USE OF PRIVATE MILITARY AND
United Nations partners to implement the Hu- SECURIT Y COMPANIES, AND THE
man Rights Due Diligence Policy (HRDDP). This DEVELOPMENT AND DEPLOYMENT
policy sets out measures that all United Nations en- OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES, WEAPONS
tities should take to ensure support provided to non- AND TACTICS, ARE INCREASINGLY
United Nations forces is consistent with the purposes CONSISTENT WITH AND RESPECT
and principles of the United Nations Charter and INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS
with their responsibility to respect, promote and en- L AW AND INTERNATIONAL
courage respect for international humanitarian, hu- HUMANITARIAN L AW.
man rights and refugee law. These measures require
United Nations entities to monitor and report on the We will deepen our understanding of the human
conduct of security forces they support and assess the rights and gender implications of the development
risk that grave violations may be committed by them. and deployment of new technologies, weapons and
We will work to strengthen accountability for imple- tactics. We will articulate an Office-wide strategy to
mentation of the policy, support the development of address the human rights challenges posed by these
standard operating procedures, risk assessments and developments and their use in conflict and non-con-
mitigation measures, and ensure that the HRDDP is flict situations. We will also assist States and relevant
applied systematically to all forms of UN support to stakeholders to put in place strong international ac-
security forces, including actions to counter terrorism countability frameworks to address human rights
and prevent violent extremism, regional and peace- violations and abuses by private military and security
building operations, and border control. companies (PMSCs), and support national efforts to
develop legislation, policies and practices that ensure
PMSCs comply with human rights standards.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
ENHANCING EQUALITY AND
COUNTERING DISCRIMINATION
28
A couple enjoying the backyard of a The principles of equality and non-discrimina-
community house in Budapest, Hungary, tion are at the heart of human rights and help to
March 2015. People with disabilities are reduce disadvantage on numerous grounds and
demanding their equal rights to dignity and
respect. ©EPA/BALAZS MOHAI.
in many areas. Human rights are not reserved for
special groups. They are for everyone, throughout
society and across the globe. However, discrimin-
ation persists against religious, ethnic and national
minorities, persons of African descent, indigenous
peoples, persons with disabilities, migrants, older
persons, children, women, and LGBTI people,
among others. Historic forms of prejudice combine
with income and social inequality to drive conflict,
racism and xenophobia. In addition, the rise ofOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
A protester makes a handprint on a canvas,
which depicts the objection to racial
discrimination and hatred, during a rally
three days ahead of the International Day
for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination,
in Seoul South Korea, March 2018.
© EPA-EFE/YONHAP.
social media has triggered the spread of hateful mes- 29
sages that fuel discrimination. At the same time,
the 2030 Agenda and its commitment to ‘leave no
one behind’ have created a momentum in favour of
equality and non-discrimination.
We will work to promote equality and counter
discrimination through laws and institutions, and
will encourage rights-based and inclusive public stigmatizing practices. We will facilitate and build
narratives; give particular attention to discrimina- new partnerships for positive change; and advocate
tion against women, persons with disabilities and for the inclusion of those left behind in the imple-
migrants; combat hate speech in the digital space; mentation and monitoring of SDGs. We will bolster
and seek to ensure that the UN system and SDG local efforts to combat discrimination and encour-
implementation adopt a human rights response to age youth, including through schools, to speak up
discrimination and inequality, ensuring that no one against discrimination. Throughout our work, we
is left behind. will pay special attention to multiple and inter-
sectional discrimination and counter the growing
Over the period 2018-2021, together with our part- threats of hate speech and hate crimes.
ners, we will work so that:
JUSTICE SYSTEMS AND RELATED
LAWS, POLICIES AND PRACTICES MORE INSTITUTIONS INCREASINGLY MONITOR
EFFECTIVELY COMBAT DISCRIMINATION AND INVESTIGATE DISCRIMINATION
IN ALL FORMS, AND RESPONSIBLE AND PROVIDE REDRESS TO VICTIMS.
AUTHORITIES ACTIVELY WORK TO
“LEAVE NO ONE BEHIND”, INCLUDING We will assist formal and informal justice systems
BY ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSES OF to apply a victim-centred, human rights-based ap-
INEQUALITY. proach, through legal advice and technical assist-
ance; encourage and assist States to address factors
We will develop good practices to combat dis- that contribute to disparities in the administration
crimination and engage with policy makers to of justice, including by gathering and analysing
implement them. We will expose underlying so- comparative data; monitor and advocate against
cial norms and lead strategic advocacy to combat biases in law enforcement, the administration of
discriminatory legislation, practices and policies, justice, and sentencing; and assist national in-
and oppose racial profiling and segregationist and dependent accountability mechanisms and StateOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
30 institutions to monitor and investigate cases of JUDICIAL INSTITUTIONS, MEDIA,
discrimination. We will also empower groups and AND OTHER SECTORS INCREASINGLY
individuals who face discrimination to demand jus- RECOGNIZE AND CHALLENGE HARMFUL
tice and accountability for violations, including by GENDER STEREOTYPES AND GENDER
providing support for strategic litigation. NORMS WITH A VIEW TO THEIR
ERADICATION.
LEGAL AND SOCIAL FRAMEWORKS
INCREASINGLY PROMOTE WOMEN’S We will develop research on how harmful gender
AND GIRLS’ AUTONOMY AND CHOICE stereotypes and social norms in the media, the
AND PROTECT THEM FROM VIOLENCE, justice system and digital space undermine gender
INCLUDING IN THE DIGITAL SPACE. equality; and develop tools and guidance to build
the capacity of journalists, judges, digital techno-
We will assist efforts to promote women’s and girls’ logy companies, and border control and law enfor-
autonomy and comprehensively address gender- cement officers to address harmful gender biases in
based violence (GBV). We will provide assistance to their work. We will raise the awareness of youth and
develop non-discriminatory and adequate legal and communities; and assist civil society organizations
policy frameworks, focusing on custody, protection to monitor and analyse gender stereotyping and
orders, access to social services, inheritance, challenge harmful social norms and bias.
nationality, labour, access to credit, and legal
standing; pursue efforts to integrate human rights PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
in policies that address abuse and violence online; EFFECTIVELY COUNTER
develop evidence and rights-based guidance on DISCRIMINATION AND HATE SPEECH IN
gender-based violence, harmful practices, and the THE DIGITAL SPACE.
appropriate use of criminal laws; and assess obstacles
to women’s and girls’ participation online. We will We will support analysis of the impact on human
build the capacity of various actors, including rights of artificial intelligence, big data, and discri-
civil society, to monitor gender-based violence and mination and hate speech in the digital space and
harmful practices, and press for approaches that identify and clarify principles and best practices.
promote women’s and girls’ autonomy and choice. We will cooperate with governments and the private
We will use our convening power to create spaces sector to protect human rights in the digital space,
for discussion and knowledge-sharing; and reach and tackle digital discrimination and hate speech.
out to new partners. We will help to address the digital divide and work
to integrate human rights in the UN system’s work
in this area.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
THE HUMAN RIGHTS OF ALL MIGRANTS, tools, to reach youth and marginalized groups. We 31
PARTICULARLY THOSE IN VULNERABLE will support educational programmes for schools
SITUATIONS, ARE PROTECTED. and universities, and for different religious au-
diences, focusing on equality and non-discrimina-
We will monitor and report on the rights of migrants tion; and work closely with partners to build public
during all phases of the migration cycle; advocate support for inclusive and diverse societies.
for full implementation of the specific protections to
which migrants in vulnerable situations are entitled; THE UN SYSTEM IMPLEMENTS A
provide technical assistance, guidance materials and COHERENT AND HUMAN RIGHTS-
legal expertise in support of human rights-based ap- BASED RESPONSE TO INEQUALITY
proaches to migration governance; and strengthen AND DISCRIMINATION, INCLUDING
the capacity of Member States, civil society, natio- INTERSECTING AND MULTIPLE FORMS
nal human rights institutions, and UN partners to OF DISCRIMINATION.
advocate for and implement human rights-based
approaches. We will research and analyse emerging We will play a leading role in the UN’s work on
migration concerns, including migrants in vulne- discrimination and social and economic inequality,
rable situations, return and reintegration, and the especially in the context of the 2030 Agenda for
human rights links between migration and climate Sustainable Development, which provides an ove-
change, poverty, women’s rights and child protec- rarching framework for addressing structural dis-
tion; and develop communication tools to reframe crimination, exclusion and inequality within and
anti-migrant narratives and amplify the voices of among countries. We will help UN country teams
migrants. to ensure that the 2030 Agenda’s commitment to
‘leave no one behind’ is grounded in the principles
PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR EQUAL, of equality and non-discrimination; provide tech-
INCLUSIVE AND DIVERSE SOCIETIES, nical support regarding specific groups that face
WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION, discrimination, based on new research that will
INCREASES. examine the human rights dimensions of inequality
with respect to such issues as fiscal and tax policy,
We will collect and disseminate evidence, human social protection, and labour rights; and strengthen
rights stories and effective messages in support of the UN system’s capacity to identify and respond to
inclusion, including on the negative impacts of dis- potential violations and warning signs of discrimi-
crimination, and support communication strategies nation and inequality.
and multi-media campaigns, using social mediaOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
STRENGTHENING THE RULE
OF LAW AND ACCOUNTABILITY
FOR HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS
32
Black Lives Matter protesters march
for Stephon Clark, an unarmed African The rule of law and accountability for human rights
American man who was shot and killed by violations are critical for prevention of violations,
police on March 18, 2018. conflict, and violence, the building and sustaining
© JOSH EDELSON / AFP. of peace, and achievement of inclusive development.
The costs of lawlessness are starkly evident across the
world: in failures of justice and impunity for crimes,
conflict over unaddressed grievances, and oppres-
sive, unaccountable rule. We need governance
systems in which all duty bearers, institutions and
entities, public or private, are accountable to lawsOHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, in- decisions that affect their lives, as an element of en- 33
dependently adjudicated, and consistent with inter- suring accountability and good governance. We will
national human rights norms and standards. work within the United Nations system to ensure
that its commitments to secure accountability and
All countries face challenges in meeting these stan- strengthen the rule of law are properly coordinated
dards. There are persistent gaps in access to justice, and supported.
especially for those subjected to discrimination,
while much still needs to be done to ensure the jus- Over the period 2018-2021, together with our part-
ticiability of economic, social and cultural rights. ners, we will work so that:
Many public decision-making processes remain
opaque and non-participatory, hindering people’s LAWS, POLICIES AND PRACTICES IN-
ability to demand and secure accountability. Much CREASINGLY ADDRESS, PREVENT AND
still needs to be done to ensure that economic, so- REDUCE HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS
cial and cultural rights can be legally claimed and IN THE CONTEXT OF LAW ENFORCE-
adjudicated. Corruption is a key risk across the MENT AND JUSTICE SYSTEMS.
board, including in judiciary and law enforcement
institutions. The need for vigilance is heightened We will advocate for administration of justice sys-
further by the decision of some States to combat tems to comply with international human rights
insecurity or terrorism by measures that violate hu- law, including through amicus briefs and trial mon-
man rights and challenge international standards, itoring. Through monitoring, reporting, capacity
including the absolute prohibition of torture and building and advocacy, we will seek to strengthen
restrictions on use of the death penalty. These meas- institutional policy frameworks and accountability
ures have proved to be counter-productive and need mechanisms to increase human rights protection in
to be countered. the context of law enforcement, specifically with re-
gard to deprivation of liberty, use of force, and pre-
We will continue to work with our partners to vention of torture and ill-treatment. We will under-
strengthen the rule of law and accountability for take strategic advocacy and develop partnerships
human rights violations in the context of law en- to promote the abolition of the death penalty and,
forcement and justice systems, and will pay added pending its abolition, we will promote moratoria
attention to those violations which have been trad- and increased adherence to international human
itionally disregarded, such as those relating to eco- rights law. Finally, we will engage strategically to
nomic, social and cultural rights and gender-related address the human rights implications of responses
crimes. We will move beyond traditional judicial ac- to transnational crimes, such as drug crimes, ter-
countability and seek to create conditions in which rorism, and human trafficking, including through
people can meaningfully shape or challenge policy research, technical support and advocacy.OHCHR MANAGEMENT PLAN 2018 – 2021 THE PILLARS OF OUR PROGRAMME
34 STRENGTHENED NATIONAL and prosecute such crimes and implement survi-
MECHANISMS PROVIDE REDRESS vor-centred reparation programmes; and encourage
TO VICTIMS AND ACCOUNTABILITY the adoption of gender-sensitive procedures to en-
FOR HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS, hance participation of victims in justice processes.
INCLUDING FOR ECONOMIC AND We will support the investigation and reporting of
SOCIAL RIGHTS. such crimes and strategic litigation before national
and regional courts. We will build civil society’s ca-
We will provide support to strengthen independent pacity to advocate for accountability for gender-re-
judicial authorities and oversight mechanisms, lated crimes; and support the development, promo-
as well as legal aid and witness protection pro- tion, and application of normative guidance.
grammes; train judicial institutions and adminis-
trative authorities; advocate for the establishment STATES TAKE MEASURES TO ENSURE
of individual complaints mechanisms in national THAT THEIR DECISION-MAKING,
human rights institutions; and promote ratification POLICIES AND ACTIONS ARE MORE
of the Optional Protocol to the International Cove- TRANSPARENT AND THE PUBLIC
nant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. We HAS ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR
will help civil society and independent monitoring ACCOUNTABILITY PURPOSES.
bodies to seek justice in cases relating to economic,
social and cultural rights. We will undertake research, policy development
and strategic communications to increase unders-
JUSTICE SYSTEMS INVESTIGATE AND tanding of the importance of transparency and ac-
PROSECUTE GENDER-RELATED CRIMES cess to information as key components of accoun-
MORE EFFECTIVELY. tability; strengthen the capacity of national human
rights institutions and oversight bodies to adjudi-
We will assist judicial officials to improve their cate and enforce transparency and freedom of infor-
understanding of international standards on gen- mation standards; and work within the UN system
der-based crimes, and their capacity to investigate to reinforce its policies in this area.You can also read
